Take Things The Right Way

We filter what people say to us through our own experiences, insecurities and beliefs. Because of this filtering process, it can be easy to misinterpret someone's words, actions or inactions as a personal assault or a statement about our self-worth. When we misinterpret or take things the "wrong" way, misunderstandings can easily arise. How many times have you been upset for days, months or even years over something someone said, did, or didn't do, only to realize later that the person’s actions were not meant to hurt you. In fact, it was not about you at all. All that stress and bad feelings and your interpretation was way off to begin with! If you can learn to take things in the best possible way you will save yourself much time worrying and generating unhappiness. The best way to handle this all too typical life situation is to adopt a no "festering" policy. If you are hurt or upset about something then nip it in the bud. Talk to the person. Ask them what is going on in their life and what they meant by their words or actions. More often you will find that the act was not meant for your harm and that you just interpreted the situation that way. It is helpful to remind yourself that everyone is having their own struggles, experiences and challenges. When we take the time to get to know where others are coming from we realize it’s rarely and mostly never, about us.